Real Cancer Talk

Real Cancer Talk

por Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center
Medicina
Temporada 2025

Community Conversations: The TRUTH Project - Community Power Against Cancer

In this powerful episode of Community Conversations / Black Health Wins, host Miss Community Clovia sits down with Dr. Robert Winn, Director of VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center; Dr. Katherine Tossas, Associate Co-Director of Global Oncology; and Suzanne Brown of the Chickahominy Tribe—the catalyst behind the TRUTH Project (Trust, Research, Understand, Tell, Heal). The conversation traces how a hand-drawn map created by local residents of Charles City County—marking cancer diagnoses and deaths in a small neighborhood—sparked a major community–academic partnership. Suzanne’s personal story of losing her mother to nonsmoking lung cancer inspired her to seek answers. Dr. Tossas and the Massey team responded, launching the TRUTH Project to investigate community concerns, conduct water testing, understand cancer perceptions, and build trust where medical mistrust has long existed. Dr. Winn provides context on cancer disparities affecting Native communities nationwide, underscoring the urgency of prevention, early detection, and culturally informed outreach. The episode highlights how the TRUTH Project has grown beyond its initial research phase: training community health workers, hosting smoking-cessation workshops, expanding to all 11 Virginia tribal nations, and establishing the first Virginia Native Nations Against Cancer Coalition. The team also discusses their national publication on gaps in genetic nondiscrimination protections for Native Americans and what it means for access to cancer care and genomic medicine. Grounded in grief, activism, and collaboration, this episode showcases how community wisdom, scientific partnership, and long-term commitment are reshaping cancer prevention and care in rural Virginia—and creating a model for tribal communities across the country. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.
T2025 · E21
4 dic 2025
28:32

Real Cancer Talk in Albuquerque: The Robert A. Winn CDA Award Scholars Dr. Maliha Nusrat and Dr. Blessie E. Nelson

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk recorded at the annual convening of the Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials program, Dr. Robert Winn spoke with Winn CDA Cohort 3 scholars Maliha Nusrat, M.D., M.S., from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Blessie E. Nelson, M.M.B.B.S., D.M.R.T., from MD Anderson Cancer Center, about what they see as the most pressing issue in the realm of clinical trials and cancer research today. Dr. Nusrat and Dr. Nelson also go in-depth on their research into pearheading new decentralized trial designs at their institutions. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.
T2025 · E20
24 nov 2025
30:22

Real Cancer Talk: The Robert A. Winn CDA Award Scholar Dr. Oluwadamilola T. Oladeru

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Robert Winn spoke with Dr. Oluwadamilola "Lola" T. Oladeru, Assistant Professor of Radiation Oncology at Mayo Clinic and 2024 Robert A. Winn Excellence in Clinical Trials: Clinical Investigator Leadership Award winner, about the impact she is making in breast cancer and health equity as part of the first class on Winn Career Development Award scholars. Dr. Oladeru discusses her work in engaging historically marginalized communities like incarcerated patients, who she believes mirror what is happening in the local community. Later Later Dr. Winn and Dr. Oladeru talk about the rapidly changing landscape in cancer research and care and the inspirations in Lola's journey as a cancer researcher. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.
T2025 · E19
17 nov 2025
25:31

Facts & Faith Friday: Domestic & Intimate Partner Violence

Dr. Shanita Brown is a speaker, board certified licensed clinical mental health counselor and educator that believes in fostering transformative and empowering dialogue about intimate partner violence, Black women and mental health wellness. With over 15 years of experience in the clinical mental health field, Dr. Brown is carving out an important dimension within counselor education, the Black community, and counseling profession by intersecting Black women, domestic violence, spirituality, and mental health. She is passionate to break the silence and empower change through education, empowerment and clinical services. She is a sought out expert in mental health wellness, domestic violence and Black women. She is a servant leader dedicated to disseminating her work in a variety of ways to increase awareness and influence the next generation of advocates and leaders. Dr. Brown’s extensive service includes work with the N.C. Domestic Violence Commission Taskforce, and most recently served on the, and National Board for Certified Counselors Minority Fellowship Advisory Council. Dr. Brown has traveled throughout the country providing educational workshops and presentations to diverse audiences, including mental health professionals, collegiate campuses, advocates, faith leaders, and professional athletic organizations. She has received numerous awards, most recently the 2021 Jane E. Myers Counseling in Wellness Award by the North Carolina Counseling Association. This episode originally aired on YouTube in October 2025. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facts and Faith Fridays: www.masseycancercenter.org/facts-and-faith-fridays Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.
T2025 · E18
11 nov 2025
59:15

Community Conversations: Interview with Kayla Nixon

In this episode of Community Conversations, Miss Community Clovia sits down with Kayla Nixon, public health communicator, cancer survivor, and founder of the Uterine Care Collaborative and Bloom RVA, who shares her deeply personal journey with uterine cancer and the calling it sparked to create change. Kayla opens up about what it means to navigate a reproductive health crisis as a young Black woman, the medical gaslighting she faced, and the community she built so others wouldn’t have to feel alone. She also dives into the importance of culturally relevant education, the state of advocacy in women’s cancer research, and the radical power of being seen, believed, and cared for. This episode is a moving conversation about healing, hope, and the urgent need to rewrite the narrative around uterine health one story at a time. This episode originally aired in November 2025. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.
T2025 · E17
7 nov 2025
22:51

Community Conversations: Interview with Norman E. "Ned" Sharpless, MD, Professor of Cancer Policy and Innovation at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine

In this compelling episode of Community Conversations, host Community Clovia welcomes Dr. Robert Winn and special guest Dr. Norman E. "Ned" Sharpless, Professor of Cancer Policy and Innovation at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. Originally aired on KISS Richmond radio, the conversation dives deep into the intersection of cancer research, public health policy, and community engagement. Dr. Sharpless shares insights from his distinguished career, including his leadership roles at the National Cancer Institute and the FDA, and discusses how innovation and equity must go hand-in-hand in the fight against cancer. The discussion highlights the importance of building trust in underserved communities, advancing clinical trials, and shaping policies that make cancer care more accessible and effective for all. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in health equity, cancer advocacy, and the power of collaboration between science and community voices. This episode originally aired in October 2025. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.
T2025 · E16
27 oct 2025
27:26

Real Cancer Talk: Prostate Cancer Prevention & Awareness with Rev. Charles Cheek

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Robert Winn spoke with with Rev. Charles Cheek, pastor of Kingdom United Fellowship, and a prostate cancer survivor to discuss Prostate Cancer Awareness month. Rev. Cheek shares his cancer journey and the importance of early prostate screenings. Later the two discuss prostate cancer in the Hampton Roads area and how to engage the community about their health. This episode originally aired in October 2025. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.
T2025 · E15
16 oct 2025
27:20

Facts & Faith Fridays: Endometrial Cancer & Empowerment

In this Real Cancer Talk episode—adapted from Massey's Facts and Faith Fridays series—we explore endometrial cancer. This episode highlights racial disparities, common symptoms, and the need to expand screening and care access. Guests Monika Brown, a women's health nurse practitioner, and Erika Brown, a gynecologic oncology nurse (not related), share expert insights and compassionate strategies to help break stigmas and encourage open conversations between women, their communities, and their doctors. You can also watch this episode and more from Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center on our YouTube Channel. This episode originally aired in September 2025. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.
T2025 · E14
6 oct 2025
34:40

Community Conversations: Massey Welcomes Dr. Monica Baskin

In this episode adapted from the Community Conversations podcast with Community Clovia, we welcome Dr. Monica Baskin, the new deputy director of research at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center. Formerly of the University of Pittsburgh Hillman Cancer Center, Dr. Monica Baskin brings a wealth of experience in community outreach, health equity, and population sciences. She shares her journey, her vision for advancing cancer research through community engagement, and how Massey is working to bridge gaps in care and equity across Virginia. This episode originally aired in August 2025. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.
T2025 · E13
30 sept 2025
23:22

Real Cancer Talk: Equity, Innovation, and Support in Patient Navigation for Cancer Care

In a special episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Robert Winn is joined by Dr. Marcie Wright, deputy director for the Alliance for Equity in Cancer Care, and Sharon Gentry, Editor in Chief of the Journal of Navigation and Survivorship (JONS) and CONQUER, discussing the importance of patient navigation. The episode helps kickoff a ten part series celebrating the latest achievements and advancements through the Alliance, in conjunction with an article published with JONS. The conversation begins with an explanation about what the Alliance is, a national, multi-site initiative funded by the Merck Foundation, and how these efforts are helping reimagine patient navigation. Later they discuss how the Alliance fits in the national lens as well as the challenges and solutions facing patient navigation today. Learn more about the Alliance for Equity in Cancer Care: Alliance Website: https://www.equityincancercare.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oncalliance This episode originally aired in September 2025. Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter Instagram: @vcumassey VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.
T2025 · E12
9 sept 2025
43:56
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